Crossing the Dolomites via the Alta Via

To reach the memorable Cinque Torri, you can go via the Tofanes and then the Lagazuoi Peak or the summit of Nivolau

Departure on foot from the hotel or short bus transfer to the Falzarego Pass

Dinner and overnight stay at the refuge

You leave behind the majestic peaks of the Tofanes and the impressive Cinque Torri, perched above the larches, to embark on a wild traverse beneath the Nuvolau. Further on, the Forcella Ambrizola, at 2277 meters, offers almost endless panoramic views of the forests and peaks surrounding Cortina d'Ampezzo. Two options are available: cross the wild Croda da Lago massif via the Formin pass, at 2461 meters, or descend directly to Lake Federa, at 2046 meters, and its refuge, via the Ambrizola pass, at 2277 meters.

From the Ambrizola Pass, you follow a series of balcony trails through alpine pastures, punctuated by small passes (Forcella Roan, at 2075 m and 1999 m). The panorama is vast, with the Pelmo and Civetta massifs as the only horizon. After the pastures, the larch forest surrounding the Città di Fiume refuge opens up at the foot of the immense scree slopes of Mount Pelmo, which you can explore or not, all the way to the Staulanza Pass at 1766 m. From the refuge, a quick ascent of Mount Crot, at 2158 m, offers a superb 360° panorama.

Begin by climbing to the Coldai Gap (2191 m), then traverse the spectacular Civetta. Admire the hanging refuge and the lake, marking the start of an unforgettable traverse beneath the Civetta wall (3220 m). Follow a nearly 3-kilometer balcony trail to the charming Vazzoler Refuge (1714 m), a favorite on this traverse. Above you, 1200 meters of sheer drop without a single gap. Below, 1000 meters lower, the white and red houses and the blue of Lake Alleghe (966 m).

Dinner and overnight stay at the Vazzoler refuge

Today you'll ascend to the Forcella dell'Orso, passing through the Palanzin pass. On the agenda: towers, peaks, spires, and castles covering the walls of the Moiazza (2878m). You'll have time to catch your breath before continuing under the Cima Duran to finally arrive at Passo Duran.

Dinner and overnight stay at the Passo Duran refuge

The final traverse takes you beneath the San Sebastiano massif (2488 m), then you descend into the valley to the village of Dont, passing through the beautiful old village of Colcerver. In Dont, you'll meet a local taxi that will take you to Longarone, where you'll find all the necessary public transport connections to Venice. The taxi can also take you to Cortina d'Ampezzo and Pocol (optional).